Mayor Eric Adams Indicted but Hints at Possible DOJ Leniency Under Trump
“Horrible,” said a high-ranking Adams administration official about the mayor’s recent troubles. | Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images
NEW YORK—Mayor Eric Adams is facing a five-count federal indictment over allegations that he accepted years of luxury travel gifts in exchange for political favors. However, under President Donald Trump’s administration, federal prosecutors have reportedly considered dropping the case, raising concerns over selective enforcement.
According to The New York Times, prosecutors have discussed the possibility of letting Adams off the hook, sparking questions about whether the mayor will remain in office amid the unfolding scandal. The indictment alleges that Adams pressured the New York Fire Department to overlook safety concerns and approve the opening of the Turkish consulate in Manhattan after receiving extravagant travel perks.
The charges have fueled speculation about his political future, with Politico reporting on whether he might step down. Adams, however, forcefully rejected the idea. “Who started the stupid rumor that I was stepping down on Friday? Are you out of your mind?” Adams asked reporters during an interfaith breakfast.
Pointing at members of the press, he added, “How do you print a rumor that I’m resigning on Friday but don’t print the facts that we had more jobs in the city’s history on that same day?” The event marked Adams’ first public appearance in a week after City Hall stated he was “attending to health issues.” Despite this, Politico reported that Adams privately hosted two labor leaders at his mansion residence during his absence from public view.
The breakfast was attended by Black faith leaders, a key part of Adams’ political coalition, and one attendee attempted to start a chant of “four more years” in support of the embattled mayor. In his remarks, Adams echoed tactics used by Trump, portraying the indictment and media scrutiny as politically motivated attacks against him.
He positioned himself as a man of the people, stating that the corruption allegations were simply a result of his identity and background. He also took aim at the press, telling a news photographer to capture a different angle as a crowd was leaving his speech.
Adams further accused the media of unfairly covering his administration, suggesting their negative portrayal of him was fueling public distrust. “This is why you’re seeing people that are booing, instead of wooing,” he said.
As Adams fights the charges and mounting political pressure, questions remain about how the Justice Department will proceed with his case. The apparent inconsistency in prosecutorial decisions under Trump’s administration has drawn scrutiny, raising concerns about whether Adams’ political alliances will ultimately shield him from accountability.
